squatting in Manchester! new social centre

Members of a group called The Freedom Project have moved into the Grade II listed Trafford Park Hotel and say they want the building to be a refuge for people who have fallen on hard times in the recession.

The group, which has about 50 members, plans to transform the Victorian-style building on Third Avenue, Trafford Park, into a 'social centre' with workshops and artists' studios.

And now they want to raise awareness of the troubles facing the pub, owned by Enterprise Inns, which was a cornerstone of the community for almost 100 years.

Home and refuge

One member of the group, Paul Seymour Harris, said: "As much as we consider this place our home and a refuge for people from all walks of life, we want to bring this neglect to the public's attention.

"This pub serviced the community well for many years. It's a shame they are letting it rot."

Built in 1902, the Trafford Park Hotel has lain empty since May 2008 and has been badly water-damaged because of drainage problems, with some ceilings on the top floor partially collapsed.

Members of The Freedom Project say they gained access to the building three weeks ago, through a side door that was left open and called Enterprise Inns to inform them.

There are now eight people squatting there including three from Poland and two from France, along with three dogs.

Repossessed

Paul, 46, originally from Chew Moor, Bolton, was left homeless in May when his house was repossessed after he lost his job as a mechanical engineer.

He found The Freedom Project through its Facebook group and was invited to move in to the Trafford Park Hotel.

He said: "The group is apolitical - it's about freedom of expression, activity and thought."

Enterprise Inns have taken members of The Freedom Project to Salford County Court where a judge gave the brewery an order for possession of the building.

Enterprise Inns declined to comment.